Musical Theatre

We combine an intensive conservatory experience with the college experience of a major university. You’ll perform on our mainstage and in our laboratory theatre, and train with renowned faculty and guest artists (including Academy and Tony Award nominees).

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Overview

What is Musical Theatre at WVU like?

Description

Musicals comprise a large percentage of the theatrical productions in the U.S. every year. We recognize that musical theatre study, performance and production are integral parts of any complete theatre education.

The goal of the Musical Theatre major is to train students for successful careers in musical and stage performance in the competitive entertainment industry. The major shares a joint curriculum and resources drawn from both the School of Theatre and Dance and the School of Music; however, the administration of the program is housed in the School of Theatre and Dance.

Through a course of study focused on the disciplines of theatre, music and dance combined with the University’s General Education Foundations (GEF) curriculum, the program is competitive with similar programs throughout the country, especially in the intensity and class time devoted to the study, practice and performance of music, theatre and dance.

The full course of study includes classes in acting, dance techniques, choreography, theatre history, vocal techniques, stage production, music theory, voice lessons, musical theatre literature and special topics. These artistic mediums also address skills necessary for career management, including auditions, resumes and professional representation. Through the Schools’ existing programs in acting and/or voice, students can take courses in traditional acting or vocal training and enroll in opera workshops.

Students have the opportunity to perform in one major musical and several minimally produced performance and showcase productions each academic year. In addition to a number of different performance opportunities in musicals, Music Theatre majors have the opportunity to cross traditional lines and benefit from participating in fully-staged dance, drama and opera productions.

All interested students must apply to the University andaudition for the School of Theatre and Dance for acceptance.

Junior Preview Days Open Houses

High school juniors: Finding the right path can begin at Junior Preview Days, a series of open houses the week of Monday, April 15. Junior Preview Days are designed to help you explore the possibilities and set your sights on the future you’ve always imagined. Register today!

What makes Musical Theatre at WVU unique?

Students prepare as performers and entrepreneurs. Alumni have founded theatre companies, written and starred in their own films and web series and are dedicated to introducing new voices and concepts into their mediums.

On-campus facilities include costume and scene shops.

The Creative Arts Center's five theatres of varied sizes and setups provide diverse atmospheres for learning.

Grants available for educational travel and research opportunities.

Student works started in the WVU Lab Theatre have carried on to the New York Musical Theatre Festival and beyond.

The NYC Showcase puts students in front of those in the theatre and entertainment industry and serves as a networking opportunity to connect with WVU alumni already established in the theatre and film industries.

West Virginia Public Theatre, a professional theatre operated through the College of Creative Arts, uses talents of both equity actors and our students.

Research and Academic Opportunities

Ample space for theatre set and costume construction allow our actors to broaden their skill set by working behind the scenes.

The Evansdale Library is just a short walk from the Creative Arts Center and houses a script collection. Students can access any number of industry specific journals and magazines to stay current on what is happening and what is about to happen in the world of theatre.

Professional Organizations

Careers

What can you do with this degree?

Career opportunities for Musical Theatre majors include working as professional performers in the television, film and entertainment industries. Graduates have gone on to work for Broadway, Off-Broadway and regional theatre companies.

Graduates may also choose to continue their education in graduate theatre programs.

Possible Careers

Wondering what you can do with a degree from WVU's Musical Theatre major? Check out these ideas from WVU Career Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is the midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.

Audition and interview performers to select most appropriate talent for parts in stage, television, radio, or motion picture productions.
Possible job titles for this career include: Artistic Director.

Popular Courses

An introduction to musical theatre repertoire along with gaining a more efficient and proficient way of learning and executing Broadway musical choreography, new and old. This course gives the student the tools needed at an intermediate to advanced level of dance, to complement their singing and acting abilities; learning choreography from notable musicals.

The purpose of studio is to reexamine basic acting principles and introduce advanced techniques in characterization, personalization, and given circumstances through exercises, monologue work, and intensive scene study coordinated with rehearsal and performance in THET 345.

Cost and Aid

How much does Musical Theatre at WVU cost? And how can you save?

Tuition and Fees

Estimated rates for the 2018-19 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current West Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.

Ways to Save

Ohio Tuition Reciprocity

As the result of a special agreement, students from Ohio who are fully admitted to Musical Theatre can enroll at WVU and pay in-state tuition rates. Students must be admitted to both the University and this major.

Related Programs

What other options does WVU have?

The BA Theatre program allows you to explore and customize your education to include a more multidisciplinary approach to theatre studies, including performance, design and technology, dramaturgy and playwriting.

Where is WVU?

West Virginia University located in Morgantown, is located about 70 miles south of Pittsburgh, PA. Close to D.C., Cleveland, and New York City, too. Fill in your address below to find out how close WVU is to you.